MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to conduct monthly job fairs across the country to widen access to employment opportunities for Filipinos.

Speaking during the 123rd Labor Day celebrations on Thursday, Marcos said the directive is part of the administration’s efforts to sustain job creation and connect more job seekers with available opportunities.

“Mahigpit kong tagubilin sa Kalihim ng Paggawa na siguruhin na buwan-buwan ay magdaraos tayo ng job fair upang mas marami pang mabigyan ng trabaho,” Marcos said in his speech at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

DOLE data show that from July 2022 to February 2025, over 4,000 job fairs have already been held, attracting around one million applicants. Nearly 170,000 of them were hired on the spot.

The President also cited the nationwide rollout of Labor Day job fairs in 69 sites beginning April 23, which brought together local employers and job seekers as part of a broader effort to stimulate the labor market.

From 2022 to 2024, the government recorded $27 billion in foreign and local investments, with Investment Promotion Agencies logging over P4.35 trillion in commitments. These investments have contributed to the creation of over 350,000 jobs.

Marcos highlighted these figures as signs of economic strength, adding that the country recently posted its lowest unemployment rate in 20 years—dropping to 3.8 percent in February 2025.

“The condition of our labor market continues to improve,” he said, noting that the government’s focus on job creation, workforce development, and investor confidence is paying off.

He also praised Filipino workers, both at home and abroad, calling them “foundations and pillars” of society and key drivers of the nation’s progress.